Forest Service Begins Controlled Burns Near Idyllwild

The U.S. Forest Service is in the process of clearing excess vegetation from areas of the San Bernardino National Forest, using controlled burns that federal officials said might be mistaken for wildfires -- the very thing they’re trying to avert.

“Prescribed fires are ignited only when both weather and fuel conditions exist that will ensure low to moderate burning rates and firefighting resources are available to keep fires within fire lines,” said San Bernardino National Forest Manager Jaime Gamboa.

He said between now and March, as long as the weather cooperates, isolated burning operations will take place in a variety of locations, including around the Idyllwild Ranger Station and close to Lake Hemet, just north of state Route 74.

Prescribed fires are necessary to reduce an overabundance of needles, small plants, small trees and brush that provide fuel for wildfires, according to the USFS.

Rangers said that clearing operations also stimulate the growth of grasses, forbs and shrubs that serve as food for deer, quail and other mountain wildlife.

All debris and slash pile burning is coordinated with the South Coast Air Quality Management District to ensure area residents have minimal exposure to smoke, officials said.

“We are sensitive to the fact that smoke has an impact on people, particularly those with respiratory conditions and allergies,” Gamboa said. “Every effort is made to ignite prescribed fires when weather patterns will carry smoke away from populated areas.”

The San Bernardino National Forest encompasses 676,666 acres, about one- third of which is in Riverside County.

Anyone with questions or concerns should contact the Forest Service at (909) 382-2600.

– City News Service.